Unconventional Compact Compound Bow

ABSTRACT

The device of the present invention employs a riser, bow limbs, and bowstring to shoot an arrow. The employed features are positioned horizontally relative to the ground and generally perpendicular to the device handle when in use. The device handle may be hinged, and is hinged in the same plane as the riser, bow limbs, and bowstring. The device handle is ambidextrous and may include an arm brace. The device handle may be adjusted to alter draw length, and the device limb pockets may be adjusted to alter draw weight. The device is completely user-adjustable, compact, and lightweight.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application relates to and claims priority from the following U.S.patent applications. This application is a continuation of applicationSer. No. 14/925,160 filed Oct. 28, 2015, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is generally directed to mechanical projectors,more specifically bows, compound bows, and compact compound bows.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Generally, it is known in the prior art for a compound bow to have astructural riser with attached flexible limbs and a cam pulley systemwith cables and a bowstring, wherein the archer holds a handle mountedto the riser in one hand and draws the bowstring with the other hand.The drawing of the bowstring rotates the cams, which reels in the cablescausing the limbs to flex and store potential energy. Upon release ofthe bowstring, the potential energy in the limbs is transferred to anarrow mounted to the bowstring and converted to kinetic energy as thearrow is propelled forward.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,957,093 for compound bow having a pistol grip byinventor Hamlett filed Jul. 19, 1989 and issued Sep. 18, 1990 isdirected to a compound bow including a rigid central body portion havingan arrow window recess in one side and a pair of bow limbs fixedlymounted to the front of the body. The central body portion is pivotallymounted to a support assembly for limited floating pivotal movement ofthe general plane of the bow limbs, bowstring and arrow axis relative tothe hand grip member. The hand grip member has a pistol grip and armsupport, the grip being mountable at any of several positions along thefore and aft axis of the support assembly for adjustment of the drawlength without the necessity of changing pulleys or arrow length. Thepivotal float between the support assembly and the bow plane eliminatesmisaligning torques placed on the arrow allowing greatly increasedaccuracy. A modified version of the compound bow comprises a frameincluding a body portion and two tensionable, planar arms extendingtherefrom, at least two pulleys mounted on the frame, a gripasymmetrically mounted on the body portion and projecting from one sidethereof and a forearm support mounted on the body portion which, whenthe grip is grasped by an archer, cooperates with the grip to helpsteady the body. When in use, the bow is held at a substantial anglewith reference to the vertical.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,371,098 for split limb compact archery bow by inventorWinther filed Aug. 28, 2000 and issued Apr. 16, 2002 is directed to acompound or recurve bow that has split limbs mounted to limb pockets,which are on pivots connected to a handle riser, wherein the riserprovides an arrow slot between the upper limbs so the arrow is launchedfrom between the upper limbs. The result is an effective compound orrecurve archery bow that is more compact and comparatively lighter thanheretofore known.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,320 for shoot through bow string arrangement for anarchery bow by inventor Edgell filed May 21, 2003 and issued May 4, 2004is directed to an archery bow including a riser having a sight planeassociated therewith; a pair of flexible limbs extending oppositely fromthe riser, with each limb having a distal end; and a pair of rotatingmembers pivotally coupled to a respective distal end. A rotationcontroller includes a first saddle and a first string having oppositeends. The first string wraps the first saddle and the opposite ends areconnected to a distal end of one of the limbs. The first string islocated on opposite sides of the sight plane. A shoot through windowincludes a second saddle, a third saddle, and a second string wrappingeach of the second saddle and the third saddle. The second string islocated on opposite sides of the sight plane.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,066,165 for center-fire bow by inventor Perry filed Aug.18, 2004 and issued Jun. 27, 2006 is directed to a bow including a bowframe with a geometric center, and a window surrounding the geometriccenter. A bow handle is attached to the bow frame at a position offsetfrom the geometric center, such that a user can fire an arrow throughthe window, through the geometric center of the bow. A gimbal may bedisposed within the window, the bow handle being pivotally attached tothe gimbal, so as to allow free pivoting of the bow about twosubstantially orthogonal axes.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,622,050 for line crossbow conversion kit and hybridcompound bow by inventors Goff and Goff filed May 27, 2011 and issuedJan. 7, 2014 is directed to a kit to convert a compound archery bow intoa left or right handed inline (vertical limb) crossbow. The conversionkit includes a mounting plate attachable to a side of the bow risersection to hold a socket to receive a draw-lock bar which can be removedfor take-down and storage. The draw-lock bar has a series of laterallyspaced bolt holes to attach a grip with a trigger release latch assemblyat a selectable draw length. The bar can be rotated and attached toeither side of the bow, and the trigger and grip can be repositionwithin the trigger housing for left, right or horizontal shooting. Thestring latch assembly has an anti-dryfire lever that is only moved fromthe blocking position when an arrow is nocked. The kit also provides ahinged cocking stirrup, and a front hand vertical grip on the riser sideopposite the draw-bar socket. Also disclosed is a dedicated hybridcompound bow for dedicated use with kit as an inline or traditionalcrossbow. The hybrid compound bow is made especially. The hybrid bow hasno forehand grip, and has a shoot through riser to provide vertical andhorizontal centering of the arrow to the string.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,656,899 for barrel cable suppressor by inventors Bednarand Hout filed Jan. 5, 2011 and issued Feb. 25, 2014 is directed to acrossbow comprising a main beam, a trigger mechanism, a bow assembly,and a barrel cable suppressor. First and second cables may pass througha cable slot formed in a barrel member. The first and second cables maybe received by first and second cams respectively such that the rotationof the first and second cams in a first direction causes the first andsecond limbs to be pulled generally inward towards the main beam. Thebarrel cable suppressor may be positioned at least partially within thecable slot and may at least partially suppresses vibrations and noisecaused by the first and second cables when the bowstring is releasedfrom the trigger mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,776,770 for bow with adjustable limbs by inventorBatdorf filed Jul. 22, 2011 and issued Jul. 15, 2014 is directed toarchery bow adjustment systems that enable adjustment of both the drawweight and the brace height of the bow. The adjustment system includes aplate mounted on an end of a riser of the bow. The plate supports a limbof the bow and is adjustably positionable relative to the riser.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,991,380 for barrel cable suppressor by inventors Bednarand Hout filed Feb. 24, 2014 and issued Mar. 31, 2015 is directed to agrip guard used with a crossbow that has a main beam including a stockand a barrel. The grip guard may have a first wall that is positionedbetween the stock and the barrel and a second wall that extendsoutwardly from the main beam. The first wall may have dampeningproperties to attenuate sounds and vibrations caused by firing thecrossbow and the second wall may prevent a user's fingers frominadvertently extending from the handle toward the barrel.

US Patent application 2013/0042848 for dual inverted limb by inventorTrpkovski filed May 25, 2012 and published Feb. 21, 2013 is directed toa bow adapted to shoot a projectile along a direction of flight. The bowincludes a riser, a first limb, a second limb, and a drawstring. Theriser extends perpendicular to the direction of flight. The riserincludes a first mount adjacent a first end and a second mount adjacenta second end of the riser. The first and the second limbs extend alongfirst and second contours from a proximal end to a distal end. The firstlimb is mounted to the first mount of the riser. The first contourincludes a first attachment segment positioned adjacent the first mount.The second limb is mounted to the second mount of the riser. The secondcontour includes a second attachment segment positioned adjacent thesecond mount. The drawstring is operably connected to the first and thesecond limbs adjacent the distal ends. The first and the secondattachment segments at least partially extend in the direction of flightfrom the proximal end to the distal end of the corresponding attachmentsegment.

US Patent application 2014/0238372 for hybrid compound bow slingshotwith ammo receiver and hinged handle by inventor Chirico filed Jan. 16,2014 and published Aug. 28, 2014 is directed to a hybrid compound bowslingshot. The device utilizes a riser, bow limbs and string that arepositioned in a plane perpendicular to the device handle such that theriser, bow limbs and string are horizontally disposed relative to theground when in use. The handle may be hinged, and is hinged in the sameplane as the riser, bow limbs and string. The device may include an armbrace that is offset to the vertical centerline of the handle, and thearm brace may be adjusted for left-handed or right-handed shooters. Thedevice may be used with arrows, and may be configured to utilize shotwith an ammo receiver positioned in the string.

US Patent application 2015/0153131 for compact compound bow by inventorTrpkovski filed Dec. 1, 2014 and published Jun. 4, 2015 is directed to acompact compound bow. In various embodiments, the compact compound bowincludes a first riser plate and a second riser plate. The bow canfurther include a first limb and a second limb, the first limb andsecond limb can be coupled to the first riser plate and the second riserplate. The bow can further include a re-locatable handle configured tobe coupled to at least one of the first riser plate or the second riserplate in a first position and coupled to at least one of the first riserplate or the second riser plate in a second position. The re-locatablehandle can be rotated 180 degrees from the first position to the secondposition.

The prior art is limited regarding compound bows including handles thatare not built into the riser and, thus, adjust to fit the archer, pivotabout an axis parallel to the undrawn bowstring to eliminate torqueing,reduce vibration transferred to the archer's bow-hand, and areambidextrous. The prior art is further limited regarding handles affixedwith an arm brace and a riser that allow arrows an arrow to pass throughits geometric center.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally directed to mechanical projectors.The invention is further directed to a compound bow. Further still, theinvention is directed to a compound bow that shoots in a generallyhorizontal plane, similar to a crossbow but with compound bow featuresand functions.

The present invention is further directed to a mechanical projectiledevice comprising a structural riser, a pair of flexible structurallimbs, and a handle, wherein the pair of structural limbs is adjustablyaffixed to the structural riser, the handle is adjustably, pivotallyaffixed to the structural riser, and the pair of structural limbs andthe handle cooperate to adjust a draw weight and a draw length of themechanical projectile device.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent tothose skilled in the art after a reading of the following description ofthe preferred embodiment when considered with the drawings, as theysupport the claimed invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a full, top-left perspective view image of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a full, top-right perspective image of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a close up, top-left perspective view diagram of theriser, sight, and related components of the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top, rear perspective view image of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top perspective view image of the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top-left, side perspective view image of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a rear perspective view image of the presentinvention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom-right perspective view image of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a left side perspective view image with the handleextended of the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a left side perspective view image with the handlecollapsed of the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front perspective view image of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top-left perspective view image of the handleconnection of the present invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates a left-bottom-rear perspective view image of theriser and handle connection of the present invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates a close, top-front perspective view image of theundrawn bowstring and cable spreaders of the present invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates a close, right-rear perspective view image of theundrawn bowstring and cable spreaders of the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a top-front perspective view image of a cam pulleyof the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is generally directed to mechanical projectors,specifically compound bows. The present invention includes a compoundbow disposed in a generally horizontal plane, parallel to the ground,wherein the compound bow includes a structural riser, limbs, campulleys, cables, and a bowstring to form the projecting functional unitsof the compound bow. Further included are a handle, arm brace, arrowrest mounts, and sight mounts.

In a preferred embodiment, the main body of the present inventionconsists of two open-frame, structural members, or riser plates, thatare horizontal and parallel to each other. In one embodiment, thestructural members or riser plates are polygonal. In another embodimentwherein the structural members or riser plates are polygonal, eachstructural member is generally hexagonal in shape, wherein when viewedwith an edge on bottom, there are four interior vertices and twoexterior vertices. At each of the four interior vertices, a short,vertical structural member is affixed between the two horizontallyparallel hexagonal structural members. In one embodiment, a linearhorizontal structural member, herein termed a pivot bar, is mounted bymounting brackets at each end to the riser plates at each interiorcorner; the pivot bar extends between the short, vertical structuralmembers such that two exterior triangles and one interior rectangle arecreated within the hexagon. Disposed between the two horizontallyparallel hexagonal structural members is an arrow rest. On both thefront edge and the back edge of both horizontal structural members aremounts, wherein the mounts removably, adjustably provide optionalmounting points for accessories such as sights, scopes and arrow rests,wherein the back edge is toward the archer. Disposed between the twostructural cross members (in one embodiment, exterior triangles withinthe interior rectangle of the horizontally parallel hexagonal structuralmember) is an ambidextrous handle, wherein the top end of the handle isadjustable between the front edge and the back edge of the horizontallyparallel hexagonal structural member along the linear horizontalstructural member (pivor bar) through an array of selectable mountingpoints, preferably two mounting points. Preferably, the handleattachment or yoke is U-shaped to allow clearance for a projectile. Theaxle hole in the yoke is offset by ¼ the distance between the adjustablehandle mounting holes. This doubles the resolution of the adjustablehandle by having the option to flip it around. In a preferredembodiment, the adjustment holes are spaced ¼″ apart and the yoke holeis offset by 1/16″, making the effective drawlength adjustmentresolution ⅛″. Affixed to the bottom end of the handle is an arm brace.The arm brace strap can be adjusted to accommodate various sizes. Thestructure of the arm brace can be secured at any angle in the planewhose normal is the general axis of the handle to accommodate armposition. In one embodiment, the arm brace is secured using a screw.Preferably, the arm brace can be adjusted by loosening the screw, movingthe arm brace to the desired position, and re-securing the screw.Adjustably affixed parallel to a front half edge of each exteriortriangle and to each of the horizontally parallel hexagonal structuralmembers are long, linear, flexible members that are parallel to eachother and at the same distance as the horizontally parallel hexagonalstructural member to which they are affixed. Rotationally affixed at theopposite end of and between the long, linear, flexible members are campulleys, which are connected by a linear, flexible, high-gauge, braidedmember, which is wrapped around at least a portion of both cam pulleys.

In a preferred embodiment, the riser plates are secured to each other bytwo sets of multifunctional crossmembers. One set serves to affix theriser plates and mount the limb pockets via the limb adjustment screws.The second set serves to affix the riser plates, provide structuralrigidity to the open framed riser plates, and provide mounting pointsoptions for the handle and accessories. Disposed along the riser plates,at each of the four intersections with the vertical plane of symmetry,are optional mounting point options for accessories, such as sights,scopes, arrow rests, ballast weights, etc. These accessories may also bemounted to the adjustable handle mount members, either directly, orindirectly, through brackets.

The space between the riser plates, in cooperation with an arrow rest,provide for an opening through which an arrow may be shot. This generalriser configuration is known as a shoot-through riser in the prior art;however, no prior art reveals a shoot-through riser between adouble-sided, open-frame riser, like that of the present invention,namely a horizontally parallel structural member. U.S. Pat. No.7,066,165 provides a shoot-through window, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,622,050provides a shoot-through riser; however, neither design employs theshoot-through riser for horizontal, non-crossbow configurations.Additionally, neither patent lends itself to firing the arrow throughthe true geometric center of the functional bow. The present inventioncooperates with an accessory arrow rest which holds the arrow directlycentered. Providing a shoot-through riser system with a double-sided,open-frame design, like the present invention, affords more equally andsymmetrically distributed transmission of force upon shooting formaximum accuracy, energy transfer efficiency and projectile speed. Theriser design has several optional arrow rest mounting points, includingthe front or the back of the riser, so significantly different arrowlengths can be shot. Though all serve the purpose of affixing an arrowrest that centers the arrow, the variety of mounting options suite manydifferent arrow rest types, as well as locations, to accommodate a widerange of arrow lengths. This adaptive design is meant to support thepersonal preferences of the user.

The prior art reveals slight adjustments for arrow rests, to aid in thetuning of the bow; however, the prior art does not teachforward/backward adjustment or multiple options for mounting locations,namely because no prior art provides a riser that allows for significantadjustments similar to that of the present invention.

The double-sided, open-frame riser in coordination with a centered arrowrest is perfectly symmetrical, allowing for the transfer of force frombowstring to limbs to riser to be evenly distributed across the riser.The forces act largely in the plane of the riser plate members,efficiently reducing the torsional structural stresses present intraditional cut-away riser, and allowing for a very lightweight design.The symmetry of the double-sided riser also reduces uneven limbdeflection and cam lean, affording a more uniform distribution of energytransfer and improved accuracy when firing. The shape of thedouble-sided, open-frame riser, compared to the traditional linear riserof a compound bow, is more resistant to deflection from the forcesapplied to it during shooting. The shape reduces structural demands onthe riser, thereby reducing the need for structural reinforcement in theriser and/or limbs, allowing for thinner members, and making the overallbow much lighter weight. Preferably, the riser of the present inventionis made of aluminum. Alternatively, the riser is made any suitablecomposite, such as carbon fiber, or a metal with high strength-to-weightratio. The single, linear riser of a traditional compound bow may bendor break with too much force or continual force—fatigue; thus,traditional compound bows need substantial reinforcement. Theclosed-loop shape of the present invention is stronger and more enduringthan straight riser of the prior art. No prior art directed to compoundbows or crossbows, in fact, provides such a riser. Further, althoughprior art, such as U.S. Pat. No. 8,622,050 provides a double-sidedriser, the riser does not have a wide, open-structure, footprint.

In an alternative embodiment, the horizontally parallel, double-sidedriser may be any shape, for example and not limitation, triangular,pentagonal, or any combination thereof. The riser shape does not need tobe a polygon, as its design should ultimately be dictated by the desiredfeatures, function and performance of the bow, for example: limb angle,axle-to-axle distance, and component mounting. Further, the principlesof this invention do not necessitate a riser with a closed shape; in oneembodiment, the riser may have an open shape or a partially open shape.In yet another embodiment, the horizontal riser may not be double-sided,albeit including a bore through which the arrow may be shot, preservingthe shoot-through riser characteristics and functions. Similarly, thelimbs may be solid, versus split.

The handle preferably is positioned to rotate in a vertical plane thatintersects the arrow to provide for balanced grip. Mounting the handleoff the riser, as such, has several advantages, including eliminatingthe need for an arm guard to protect the archer from the bowstring. Theextended axle of the pivoting handle intersects the arrowperpendicularly. Handle mount adjustment is in the direction of thearrow, spanning a range between the front of the riser and the back. Thedrawn bow's mass is preferably balanced about the pivot of the handle.Balancing can typically be achieved with intentional configuration ofthe accessories, such as arrow rest and sights, but can also be achievedthrough ballast massed if desired. Further, the handle is completelyambidextrous and symmetrical relative to the riser; no adjustments arenecessary for left- or right-handedness, unlike other ambidextroushandles in the prior art that require grip adjustments, for example, forcomplete ambidexterity. The arm brace can be rotated to fit thepreference of the user, and these preferences frequently fall into tworanges, defined by handedness.

A ¼″×20 threaded hole is included under the handle or arm brace to fit amonopod, bipod or tripod. This provides an optional aid in steadying theprojector while aiming. Alternatively, the arm brace may be resteddirectly on an object like a log, gun rail, tree branch or rock, tosteady the device. Neither of these methods are present in the prior artfor vertical bows. Further, the arm brace, including the brace supportand brace pad, provide enhanced stabilization while holding and shootingthe bow by counteracting the torque created when drawing the bow. If notfor the arm brace, the draw weight of the bow would be severely limitedby the strength of the wrist to counteract the torque created upondrawing the bow.

In a preferred embodiment, the handle pivots around a horizontal axisperpendicular to the length of the arrow. This pivoting is provided bythe adjustment holes in the linear, horizontal structural cross membersof the riser. Pivoting mechanically eliminates the ability of the archerto draw the bowstring out of plane from the flexing limbs—a classic andnatural technique problem called “torqueing.” By pivoting, and balancingthe drawn bow about that pivot, the bowstring does not deflect in adirection normal to the plane of the riser and torqueing is reduced, ormore preferably, effectively eliminated. Reduced or effectivelyeliminated torqueing creates a more efficient, consistent and accurateshot. Further, bowstring alignment with respect to the riser, limbs,cams and cables does not change no matter the shooting angle, as thereis no torqueing. Further still, the pivot is mechanically designed incooperation with the geometric center of the shoot-through riser tostrategically eliminate torqueing.

Preferably, the angle between the handle and the horizontal plane of theriser is adjustable between about 160 degrees and about 0 degrees. Inanother embodiment, the angle between the handle and the horizontalplane of the riser is adjustable between about 85 degrees and about 5degrees. In another embodiment, the angle between the handle and thehorizontal plane of the riser is adjustable between about 80 degrees andabout 10 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle between the handleand the horizontal plane of the riser is adjustable between about 75degrees and about 15 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle betweenthe handle and the horizontal plane of the riser is adjustable betweenabout 70 degrees and about 20 degrees. In another embodiment, the anglebetween the handle and the horizontal plane of the riser is adjustablebetween about 65 degrees and about 25 degrees. In another embodiment,the angle between the handle and the horizontal plane of the riser isadjustable between about 60 degrees and about 30 degrees. The anglebetween the handle and the horizontal plane of the riser can beadjustable anywhere between about 160 degrees and about 0 degrees,including the embodiments listed above, and as one of ordinary skill inthe art would recognize, any range between about 160 degrees and 0degrees. The handle pivoting towards the horizontal plane of the riseris advantageous over the prior art in that it provides for more compactbow. Unlike the prior art, the variety of angles that can be formedbetween the handle and the horizontal plane of the riser provide for avariety of positions which effectively eliminate torqueing. Thisprovides for a user to shoot from more angles and positions than theprior art while eliminating the adverse effects of torqueing.

The more compact bow of the present invention compared to the prior artis also advantageous with respect to storage, carrying the bow around(such as on a backpack), avoiding obstacles when shooting the bow, etc.In a preferred embodiment, the handle is adjustable forward and backwardalong the riser. By adjusting the handle position, the archercorrespondingly adjusts the functional draw length of the bow. Thehandle adjustment preferably is in increments of ⅛″, which isaccomplished by having riser holes spaced ¼″ apart and a handle yokewith a pivot hole 1/16″ off-center, thereby allowing the handle yoke tobe rotated 180 degrees to provide 1/16″ extension in front of or behindeach riser hole. The elegance of this design feature is that thefunctional bow remains undisturbed while the handle is moved to changethe draw length. Adjusting the handle position requires little effort,which this provides for multiple users to use the same bow. Preferably,the draw length can also be adjusted without tools. Changing theeffective draw length does not require any adjustment of the arrow,arrow rest, sights, limbs, cables, cams, cam modules or bowstring. Inone embodiment, nothing in the bow must be disassembled to change thedraw length. Advantageously, the draw length can be adjusted in realtime or in near real time. In one embodiment of the present invention,the draw length can be adjusted from about 25.5 inches to about 29.125inches. It is apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art that thepresent invention lends itself to embodiments designed for any practicalrange of draw lengths, including but not limited to, from about 22inches to about 27 inches, from about 23 inches to about 28 inches, fromabout 24 inches to about 29 inches, from about 25 inches to about 30inches, and any combination thereof.

In an alternative embodiment, the riser holes are spaced about ⅓″ apart.In another alternative embodiment, the riser holes are spaced about ⅕″apart. In yet another alternative embodiment, the riser holes are spacedbetween about 0.508 and about 0.847 cm. Further, an alternativeembodiment includes open square spaces to allow for handle connection.Further still, an alternative embodiment includes handle connectionsthat lock in place. Further still, separate alternative embodimentscontain a pivot hole on the handle yoke that is 1/14″, 1/15″, and 1/17″off-center. Alternative embodiments use other mechanical methods foradjusting the location of the pivoting handle, such as guide rails andclamps and cantilevered struts with setscrews. It is plain to thoseskilled in the art that other mechanisms for adjusting the location ofthe pivoting handle are envisioned and within the scope of the presentinvention, but have been deleted for sake of conciseness.

In an alternative embodiment, the handle pivots with respect to an axisperpendicular to the horizontal structural riser. In one embodiment, thehandle mounts to the device via a biaxial gimbal, thus providingrotation of the compound bow in the horizontal and vertical planes. Inyet another embodiment, the handle of the device pivotally attaches tothe riser via a tri-axial gimbal or a mechanical ball-and-socket joint,thus providing multi-axial rotation of the bow with respect to thehandle. The handle mount may be U-shaped or any other shape that allowsthe handle to be positioned out of the arrow's path, thus affording aclear avenue for shooting.

Specifications, such as draw weight, are independently adjusted fromdraw length. Draw weight is preferably altered to match an archer'sstrength. To adjust the functional draw weight, the screws affixing thelimbs to the riser are loosened or tightened. Compound bows in the priorart typically have draw weight ranges of about 10 pounds. For example, a75 pound draw weight could be adjusted down to 65 pound. The compoundbow of the present invention preferably has a highly adjustable drawweight range between about 5 and about 40 pounds. More preferably, thecompound bow of the present invention has a draw weight range of about40 pounds. This is a design feature of the riser and limb pockets. Anexample embodiment has a draw weight that can be adjusted continuouslybetween about 25 and about 65 pounds, thereby allowing a large adult anda small child to use the same bow. In other embodiments, the draw weightcan be adjusted to be as low as 10 pounds, 15 pounds, 20 pounds, 25pounds, 30 pounds, 35 pounds, or 40 pounds, and as high as 45 pounds, 50pounds, 55 pounds, 60 pounds, 70 pounds, 75 pounds or 80 pounds. Thecompound bow of the present invention is, therefore, completelyadjustable. Further, the design is such that these adjustments do notrequire the aid of a bow press.

Notably, the compound bow of the present invention has a bow speed ofabout 300 feet per second using an approximately 55 pound draw weightand an arrow weight of about 268 grains.

In a preferred embodiment, the limbs are adjustably attached to theriser via adjustment screws in the limb pockets. These adjustment screwsare loosened and tightened to change the preloaded of the limbs andultimately the draw weight, according to the user's desire. In oneembodiment, the adjustment screws span about 0.1-3 inches long.Preferably, the adjustment screws span about 0.1-1.75 inches long.Alternatively, the adjustment screws are between about 0.5 inches andabout 1.5 inches long. In another embodiment, the adjustment screws arebetween about 1 inch and 1.5 inches long. In yet another embodiment, theadjustment screws are between about 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches long. Inone embodiment, the adjustment screw spans about 1.5 inches. When thescrews are loosened, the bowstring is slackened and cam, cable andbowstring adjustments can be made as tuning and timing work is needed.In this way, adjustments can be made without a bow press. In the priorart, limbs may be adjustable, but if the screws are loosened to thepoint where the screws come out, the bow will come apart because of theflex in the limbs. However, the screws of the present invention arepreferably long enough so that the limb pocket screws can be unscrewedcompletely or removed. This is advantageous as it allows the bow to betaken apart without specialized equipment, and also reduces oreliminates the risk of injury from taking apart the bow. Affixed to theends of both sets of parallel split limbs, opposite the ends secured bythe limb pockets, are radial cam pulleys; there is one cam pulley foreach set of split limbs. Connecting the two cams are a bowstring andfour cables. On the cables are cable spreaders. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the cam pulleys operate using atwin cam (also called two cam or dual cam) system. Alternatively, thecam arrangement can be customized to suit the archer's or manufacturer'spreferences. By way of example and not limitation, other cam types thatcan be used include hybrid, single, or binary cams.

In a preferred embodiment, four cables are used along with cablespreaders. The cable spreaders serve two purposes: to feed the cablesinto the cam module channels in the plane of the module channels, andspread out the cables such that the arrow can pass between them withoutinterference. With single or two cable systems, the cable often needs tobe held away from the arrow's path by a system of sliders or pulleys.This is done off center, meaning that the cables, which function to flexthe limbs, are not symmetrically flexing the limbs, causing them toperform differently and fatigue. The unbalanced flexing is often maskedby adjusting the aim to compensate for poor arrow flight, whichultimately results in less efficient, less smooth, less accuratedesigns. Therefore, the four cable design, in conjunction with the cablespreaders, allows both sets of limbs to flex the same and prevent limbleaning. An alternative embodiment does not use cable spreaders with thefour cable system. Yet another embodiment uses cable spreaders that donot bring the cables in the plane of the cam module channels.Alternative embodiments use cable systems that correspond to alternativecam systems and may or may not use cable spreaders. Those skilled in theart will recognize the advantages and disadvantages of applying variouscam and cable systems to this bow and understand that the scope of thisinvention is not limited to any specific cable or cam system, or the useof cable spreaders.

Solid limb advocates propose that solid limbs offer better torsionalstiffness and are more accurate than split limbs. Split limb advocatespropose that split limbs are more durable and produced less hand-shockthan solid limbs. Limb materials, technologies, and composites continueto improve, thereby reducing the strength of either advocate'sproposition. However, the preferred embodiment of the present inventionuses a split limb style, so that reaction forces from the limbs are moredirectly converted to in-plane stresses in the riser plates. In analternative embodiment, the limbs are solid, albeit containing a slitfor cam pulley insertion, attachment, and rotation. Alternativeembodiments include solid limbs or split limbs, the centers of which donot align with the riser plates. In these embodiments, it isrecommended, but not required, that the limbs are affixed to the risersuch that the reaction forces act through the center of the riserplates. In yet another embodiment, the compound bow includes one mainriser structure, and the limbs are affixed out of the plane of theriser. In yet another embodiment, the compound bow includes one mainriser structure and the limbs are affixed in the plane of the riser.

In a preferred embodiment, the length of the compound bow from axle toaxle is between about 17 to 18 inches. Alternatively, the axle-to-axlelength can be anywhere from about 17 inches to 20 inches. In anotherembodiment, the axle-to-axle length is between about 16 inches and 23inches, or longer if desired. However, most preferably, the axle-to-axlelength is about 17 inches. This preferred axle-to-axle length is abouthalf that of most compound bows of prior art. A small bow isadvantageous because it is easily maneuverable and interference fromtree limbs, shooting rails, tree trunks and ground blinds is minimizedwhen hunting. The small size is afforded by the geometry and design ofthe riser, cable, and cam systems. In one embodiment, the geometry ofthe riser is generally triangular in shape. In other embodiments, thegeometry of the riser is rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal,or octagonal. Additional embodiments do not have a closed shape. It isobvious to those skilled in the art that the general outline or shape ofthe riser is an open design variable that is not limited by the scope ofthis invention.

In a preferred embodiment, due to its compact size and efficientmanagement of structural stresses, the weight of the present inventionis between about 2.5 to 3.0 pounds. Alternatively, the weight is betweenabout 2.0 to 2.5 pounds. In yet another alternative, the weight isbetween about 3.0 and 4.0 pounds. In yet another embodiment, the weightis between 3.0 pounds and 5.0 pounds. In another embodiment, the bow isapproximately 3 pounds. In another embodiment, the bow is approximately3.5 pounds. In a preferred embodiment, the bow is about 2.8 pounds.

Unlike a traditional, vertically-oriented compound bow, thenontraditional, horizontally-oriented compound bow of the presentinvention is much less likely to interfere with a ground blind, treestand, or thick brush while being used to hunt. Although in thehorizontal plane, this compound bow requires the same shooting mechanicsof the traditional compound bow, allowing an archer to easily transferhis/her skills. Further, the horizontal structure provides a greatalternative for disabled archers, specifically those who arewheelchair-bound, where a vertical bow would interfere.

FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the device of the presentinvention. The riser 10 is the central body of the device. Pivot bars 11are mounted to the riser by mounting brackets 17. A handle 14 isattached to the riser 10 via a yoke 12, the handle being adjustablymovable from the front to the back of the pivot bars 11 using pivotattachment holes 13. An arm brace 16 is attached to the handle. Affixedto the riser 10 are split limbs 20 via limb pockets 22. The split limbs20 are adjustable by adjustable limb screws 24. At the opposite end ofthe split limbs 20 are cam pulleys 26. The cam pulleys 26 at each end ofeach split limb 20 are connected by bowstring 30. Centrally located inthe bowstring 30 is a nock point 34 and a set of cable spreaders 32,which provide a window for the arrow 40 to shoot through. Supporting thearrow 40 and attached to the riser 10 is an arrow rest 42. A sight 44 ismounted to the riser via an accessory mount 43. Notably, unused pivotadjustment holes 13 can also serve to mount accessories. The verticalbar connecting the riser is in the vertical plane, although in thepresent invention, with a bend inward, which is preferable.Alternatively, the bar can be completely vertical, which would allow formore pivot adjustment holes 13 and a greater change in draw length,since draw length is a product of handle 14 adjustment (i.e. draw lengthcan be affected without modifying bowstring, cam pulleys, or limbs).

FIG. 2 illustrates a full, top-right perspective image of the presentinvention. The riser 10 is the central body of the device. A handle 14is attached to the riser 10 via a handle yoke 12, the handle beingadjustably movable from the front to the back of the riser 10 usingpivot attachment holes 13. The yoke 12 also enables the handle to pivotusing the pivot attachment holes 13. An arm brace 16 is attached to thehandle. Affixed to the riser 10 are split limbs 20 via limb pockets 22.The split limbs 20 are adjustable by adjustable limb screws 24. At theopposite end of the split limbs 20 are cam pulleys 26. The cam pulleys26 at each end of each split limb 20 are connected by bowstring 30.Centrally located on the bowstring 30 is a nock point 34. A set of cablespreaders 32 provide a window for the arrow to shoot through. Supportingan arrow within the riser 10 is an arrow rest 42. A sight 44 is mountedto the riser 10 via an accessory mount 43. The sights, arrow rest andany other accessory have several optional mounting points to accommodatevarious components and user preferences.

FIG. 3 illustrates a close up, top-left perspective view diagram of theriser 10, sight 44, and related components of the present invention.Attached to the riser 10 is the handle via a yoke 12, the handle beingadjustably movable from the front to the back of the riser 10 usingpivot attachment holes 13. The split limbs 20 are adjustable byadjustable limb screws 24. Affixed to the riser 10 are split limbs 20via limb pockets 22. A sight 44 is mounted to the riser 10. The sight ismovable from the front to the back of the riser 10. The handle 14 isalso depicted, as well as the cable spreaders 32 and accessory mounts43.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top-rear perspective view image of the presentinvention. The riser 10, yoke 12, arm brace 16, split limbs 20, campulleys 26, bowstring 30, cable spreaders 32, nock point 34, arrow rest42, accessory mounts 43, and sight 44 are depicted in this view.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top perspective view of the basic structureincluding an arm brace 16, riser 10, and limb pockets 22. The yoke 12area is displayed next to the horizontal, linear members. Accessorymounts 43 are displayed at the front edge and back edge of the riser 10.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side perspective view with the handle 14 fullypivoted toward the riser 10. The limb pockets 22, split limbs 20, andadjustable limb screw 24 confer complete adjustability andcustomizability of effective draw weight. The cam pulley 26 system isdisplayed at the opposite end from the limb pocket 22.

FIG. 7 illustrates a rear perspective view of the present invention. Thearrow rest 42, clearly visible in this view, is directly behind the nockpoint 34. The sight 44, handle 14, bowstring 30, arm brace 16, splitlimbs 20, and other components are also displayed.

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom-right perspective view image of the presentinvention. The grip screw threads 18 are clearly visible in this view.The grip screws attach the grip to the handle frame, thus allowingcustom grip assembly. An archer may add a custom wood or synthetic grip,or use the custom grip assembly without adding a grip. The riser 10,yoke 12, pivot attachment holes 13, handle 14, arm brace 16, split limbs20, cam pulleys 26, bowstring 30, cable spreaders 32, nock point 34,arrow 40, arrow rest 42, accessory mounts 43, and sight 44 are depictedin this view.

FIG. 9 illustrates a left side perspective view of the present inventionwith a handle grip 19 covering the handle, with the handle grip 19 beingheld in place by grip screw 15 inserted into the grip screw threads. Theyoke 12, pivot adjustment holes 13, arm brace 16, split limbs 20, limbpockets 22, limb adjustment screw 24, arrow 40, and sight 44 aredepicted in this view.

FIG. 10 illustrates a left side perspective view image with the handlecollapsed of the present invention. A handle grip 19 covers the handle,with the handle grip 19 being held in place by grip screw 15 insertedinto the grip screw threads. The yoke 12, pivot adjustment holes 13, armbrace 16, split limbs 20, limb pockets 22, limb adjustment screw 24,arrow 40, and sight 44 are depicted in this view.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front perspective view of the present invention.An arrow rest 42 is removably attached to the riser 10. A sight 44 isremovably attached to the riser 10. The riser 10, handle 14, arm brace16, handle grip 19, split limbs 20, and limb adjustment screw 24 arealso depicted in this view.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top perspective view focused on the yoke 12, whichis inserted into the riser 10, and is adjustably movable from the frontto the back of the riser using the pivot adjustment holes 13. The armbrace 16, arrow 40, accessory mount 43, a limb pocket 22, and handle 14can also be seen in this view.

FIG. 13 illustrates a left-bottom-rear perspective view image of theriser and handle connection of the present invention. A yoke 12 isinserted into the riser 10, and is adjustably movable from the front tothe back of the riser. The arm brace 16, split limbs 20, accessory mount43, and handle 14 can also be seen in this view.

FIG. 14 illustrates a front, top perspective view of the presentinvention focused on the window created by the cable spreaders 32. Anock point 34 is in the background. The riser 10, arrow 40, split limbs20, cam pulleys 26, bowstring 30, and arrow rest 42 are also depicted inthis view.

FIG. 15 illustrates a close, left-rear perspective view image focused onthe window created by the cable spreaders 32. A nock point 34 is above.In the background, is a cam pulley 26. The cable spreaders feed cablesinto the cam pulleys 26 and spread the cables for the arrow to shootthrough. The bowstring 30, arrow 40, and split limbs 20 are alsodepicted in this view.

FIG. 16 illustrates a cam pulley 26 of the present invention. Thebowstring 30 is wrapped around the cam pulley 26.

The above-mentioned examples are provided to serve the purpose ofclarifying the aspects of the invention, and it will be apparent to oneskilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of theinvention. By way of example, the handle may pivot in multiple axes.Also by way of example, the limbs may be solid. By nature, thisinvention is highly adjustable, customizable and adaptable. Theabove-mention examples are is just some of the many configurations thatthe mentioned components can take on. All modifications and improvementshave been deleted herein for the sake of conciseness and readability butare properly within the scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mechanical projectile device comprising:flexible members, each flexible member having a first end and a secondend; a bowstring including a nock point; a handle including a top endand a bottom end, wherein the top end of the handle includes a yoke andthe bottom end of the handle is attached to an arm brace; and a riser,wherein the riser includes: a pair of pivot bars including a first pivotbar and a second pivot bar; and a structural riser member having a fronthalf and a back half, wherein the pair of pivot bars are perpendicularlyand symmetrically affixed to the front half of the structural risermember; wherein the pair of pivot bars are perpendicularly andsymmetrically affixed to the back half of the structural riser member;wherein the first pivot bar is parallel to the second pivot bar; whereineach pivot bar includes a multiplicity of holes; wherein the first endof each flexible member is affixed to the structural riser member;wherein the bowstring is attached to the second end of each flexiblemember; wherein the yoke is pivotally mountable between the pair ofpivot bars via the multiplicity of holes on each pivot bar; and whereinthe mechanical projectile device provides for a variety of draw lengthsvia horizontal movement of the yoke between the pair of pivot bars. 2.The mechanical projectile device of claim 1, wherein the arm brace isrotatable about the bottom end of the handle through a plurality ofpositions which accommodate left-handedness and right-handedness.
 3. Themechanical projectile device of claim 1, wherein the arm brace, thehandle, the yoke, and the riser are symmetrical relative to a verticalplane which bisects the handle, the arm brace, the yoke, and the risersuch that no adjustments to the arm brace, the handle, the yoke, or theriser are needed to accommodate left-handedness and right-handedness. 4.The mechanical projectile device of claim 1, wherein the yoke includesan offset hole for pivotally mounting the yoke between the pair of pivotbars, wherein the yoke is forwardly and reversibly mountable between thepair of pivot bars via the offset hole, and wherein forwardly mountingthe yoke on a selected hole selected out of the multiplicity of holes oneach of the pair of pivot bars provides a different draw length fromreversibly mounting the yoke on the selected hole selected out of themultiplicity of holes on each of the pair of pivot bars.
 5. A mechanicalprojectile device comprising: a top pair of flexible members and abottom pair of flexible members, each flexible member having a first endand a second end; a cam pulley system including cam pulleys and at leastone cable; a bowstring including a nock point; a handle including a topend a bottom end, wherein the top end of the handle is connected to ayoke and the bottom end of the handle is connected to an arm brace; anda horizontal structural riser including: a pair of pivot bars includinga left pivot bar and a right pivot bar, each pivot bar having a top, abottom, a front end, a back end, and two sides; a pair of front mountingbrackets including a left front mounting bracket and a right frontmounting bracket, wherein the front end of the left pivot bar isattached to the left front mounting bracket and the front end of theright pivot bar is attached to the right front mounting bracket; a pairof back mounting brackets including a left back mounting bracket and aright back mounting bracket, wherein the back end of the left pivot baris attached to the left mounting bracket and the back end of the rightpivot bar is attached to the right mounting bracket; a top riser platehaving an inside, an outside, a front half, a back half, a top, and abottom; a bottom riser plate having an inside, an outside, a front half,a back half, a top, and a bottom, wherein the bottom riser plate isparallel to the top riser plate and the top of the bottom riser platefaces the bottom of the top riser plate; wherein the pair of frontmounting brackets are affixed to the front half of the top riser plateand the pair of front mounting brackets are affixed to the front half ofthe bottom riser plate; wherein the pair of back mounting brackets areaffixed to the back half of the top riser plate and the pair of backmounting brackets are affixed to the back half of the bottom riserplate; wherein the top of each pivot bar faces the bottom of the topriser plate and the bottom of each pivot bar faces the top of the bottomriser plate; wherein the first end of each flexible member of the toppair of flexible members is affixed to the front half of the top riserplate; wherein the first end of each flexible member of the bottom pairof flexible members is affixed to the front half of the bottom riserplate on the outside of the bottom riser plate; wherein the cam pulleysare rotationally affixed between the top pair of flexible members andthe bottom pair of flexible members via affixation between the secondends of each of the flexible members; wherein the at least one cable iswrapped around at least a portion of the cam pulleys; wherein thebowstring is wrapped around at least a portion of the cam pulleys; andwherein the yoke is pivotally mountable between the pair of pivot barssuch that the handle is adjustable among a plurality of positions viamovement of the yoke.
 6. The mechanical projectile device of claim 5,wherein the handle pivots about an axis parallel to the horizontalstructural riser.
 7. The mechanical projectile device of claim 5,wherein the handle pivots about an axis perpendicular to the horizontalstructural riser.
 8. The mechanical projectile device of claim 5,wherein the arm brace is rotatable about the bottom end of the handlefrom a home position through a plurality of positions which accommodateleft-handedness and right-handedness, wherein when the arm brace is inthe home position, the handle, the arm brace, the yoke, and thehorizontal structural riser are symmetrical relative to a vertical planewhich bisects the handle, the arm brace, the yoke, and the horizontalstructural riser.
 9. The mechanical projectile device of claim 5,wherein the yoke is pivotally mountable between the pair of pivot barsvia a plurality of holes on each pivot bar.
 10. The mechanicalprojectile device of claim 5, wherein the yoke includes an offset pivotpoint for pivotally mounting the yoke between the pair of pivot bars,wherein the yoke is forwardly and reversibly mountable between the pairof pivot bars via the offset pivot point, and wherein forwardly mountingthe yoke at a location between the pair of pivot bars provides adifferent draw length from reversibly mounting the yoke at the locationbetween the pair of pivot bars.
 11. The mechanical projectile device ofclaim 5, wherein no components of the mechanical projectile device arepositioned in a horizontal plane between the pair of pivot bars, suchthat no components of the mechanical projectile device obstructhorizontal movement of the yoke among the plurality of positions viamovement of the yoke.
 12. The mechanical projectile device of claim 5,wherein the top end of the handle further includes a biaxial gimbal,wherein the biaxial gimbal is connected to the yoke and the biaxialgimbal provides for the handle to rotate with respect to two axes. 13.The mechanical projectile device of claim 5, wherein the top end of thehandle further includes a triaxial gimbal, wherein the triaxial gimbalis connected to the yoke and the triaxial gimbal provides for the handleto rotate with respect to three axes.
 14. A mechanical projectile devicecomprising: limbs, each limb having a first end and a second end; abowstring including a nock point; a handle including a top end and abottom end, wherein the top end of the handle has a yoke; and ahorizontal structural riser including: a pair of pivot bars including aleft pivot bar and a right pivot bar, each pivot bar including a top, abottom, a front end, a back end, and two sides; a pair of front mountingbrackets including a left front mounting bracket and a right frontmounting bracket, wherein the front end of the left pivot bar isattached to the left front mounting bracket and the front end of theright pivot bar is attached to the right front mounting bracket; a pairof back mounting brackets including a left back mounting bracket and aright back mounting bracket, wherein the back end of the left pivot baris attached to the left mounting bracket and the back end of the rightpivot bar is attached to the right mounting bracket; a top riser platehaving an inside, an outside, a front half, a back half, a top, and abottom; a bottom riser plate having an inside, an outside, a front half,a back half, a top, and a bottom, wherein the bottom riser plate isparallel to the top riser plate and the top of the bottom riser platefaces the bottom of the top riser plate; wherein the pair of frontmounting brackets are perpendicularly and symmetrically affixed to thefront half of the top riser plate and are perpendicularly andsymmetrically affixed to the front half of the bottom riser plate;wherein the pair of back mounting brackets are perpendicularly andsymmetrically affixed to the back half of the top riser plate and areperpendicularly and symmetrically affixed to the back half of the bottomriser plate; wherein the top of each pivot bar faces the bottom of thetop riser plate and the bottom of each pivot bar faces the top of thebottom riser plate; wherein the first end of each limb is affixed to thefront half of the top riser plate; wherein the first end of each limb isaffixed to the front half of the bottom riser plate; wherein thebowstring is attached to the second end of each limb; and wherein theyoke is pivotally mountable between the pair of pivot bars such that themechanical projectile device provides for a variety of draw lengths viahorizontal movement and pivotal mounting of the yoke between the pair ofpivot bars, wherein the variety of draw lengths includes a longest drawlength and a shortest draw length.
 15. The mechanical projectile deviceof claim 14, further comprising an arm brace connected to the bottom endof the handle, wherein the arm brace is rotatable about the bottom endof the handle from a home position through a plurality of positionswhich accommodate left-handedness and right-handedness, wherein when thearm brace is in the home position, the handle, the arm brace, the yoke,and the horizontal structural riser are symmetrical relative to avertical plane which bisects the handle, the arm brace, the yoke, andthe horizontal structural riser.
 16. The mechanical projectile device ofclaim 14, wherein each pivot bar includes a multiplicity of holesdisposed between the two sides of each pivot bar, wherein the yoke ispivotally mountable between the pair of pivot bars via the multiplicityof holes disposed between the two sides of each pivot bar such that themechanical projectile device provides for the variety of draw lengthsvia horizontal movement and pivotal mounting of the yoke between thepair of pivot bars.
 17. The mechanical projectile device of claim 14,wherein the handle pivots about an axis parallel to the horizontalstructural riser.
 18. The mechanical projectile device of claim 14,wherein the handle pivots about an axis perpendicular to the horizontalstructural riser.
 19. The mechanical projectile device of claim 14,wherein no components of the mechanical projectile device are positionedin a horizontal plane between the pair of pivot bars, such that nocomponents of the mechanical projectile device obstruct horizontalmovement of the yoke of the handle between the pair of pivot bars. 20.The mechanical projectile device of claim 14, wherein the yoke includesan offset pivot point for pivotally mounting the yoke between the pairof pivot bars, wherein the yoke is forwardly and reversibly mountablebetween the pair of pivot bars via the offset pivot point, and whereinforwardly mounting the yoke at a location between the pair of pivot barsprovides a different draw length from reversibly mounting the yoke atthe location between the pair of pivot bars.